Astronomer Lick Observatory

Position overview

Position title: Support Astronomer for Lick Observatory (Asst. Spec.

- Spec. Ranks)

Salary range: Commensurate with qualifications and experience. The posted UCSC Salary Scales set the minimum pay determined by rank and step  the scale titled, Represented Specialist Series Fiscal Year. A salary that is higher than the published system‑wide salary at the designated rank and step, are offered when necessary to meet competitive conditions. A reasonable estimate for this position is $75,000 - $105,000.

Percent time: Full‑time (100%)

Anticipated start: As soon as possible after the initial review of applications.

Position duration: Initial appointment will be for two years, with the possibility of reappointment. Should the hiring unit propose reappointment; a review to assess performance will be conducted. Reappointment is also contingent upon the availability of funding.

Open date: October 3, 2025

Most recent review date: Monday, Nov 3, 2025 at 11:59pm (Pacific Time). Applications received after this date will be reviewed by the search committee if the position has not yet been filled.

Final date: Friday, Oct 2, 2026 at 11:59pm (Pacific Time). Applications will continue to be accepted until this date, but those received after the review date will only be considered if the position has not yet been filled.

University of California, Santa Cruz (UCSC) invites applications for a Support Astronomer for Lick Observatory on Mt. Hamilton. UCO’s mission is to provide UC astronomers with access to forefront optical and infrared observatories, to design and build advanced instrumentation for the Lick, Keck, and Thirty Meter Telescope (TMT) Observatories, and to provide an organization that can coordinate astronomy groups throughout the UC system in support of their ground‑based observing.

UCO is a multi‑campus astronomical research unit of UC, with headquarters on the UCSC campus. UCO operates the Lick Observatory on Mount Hamilton and technical laboratories at UCSC and UCLA, and funds instrumentation‑related activities around the UC system. UCO is a managing partner of the W. M. Keck Observatory in Hawaii, and the focal point for UC participation in the TMT project.

Support Astronomer Duties

Scientific Support (60%)

• Instrument setup and calibration.
• Observer training and checkouts.
• On‑call troubleshooting and recovery.
• Operate and maintain Lick instrumentation, including Shane
  
  AO and associated laser systems:
  • Setup, calibration, and optimization of Adaptive Optics equipment.
  • Manage LGS operations on laser nights.
  • Support approximately 65‑80 nights per year of observing.
  • Assist with development and/or commissioning of new equipment.
  • Create and update technical manuals and user documentation.
• Maintain remote observing systems (e.g., Windows VM images).
• Work collaboratively with off‑site personnel to address real‑time technical issues – including monitor, respond to and process time‑critical events (e.g., Targets of Opportunity).
• Participate in training workshops and hands‑on observer instruction (e.g., Graduate Student Workshop).
• Address user needs with professionalism across a range of technical abilities and backgrounds.
• Conduct independent research (with encouragement to publish results).
• Respond in person to on‑call emergencies within 40 minutes.

Public Programs & Outreach (40%)

• Assist the Public Education Manager in planning and managing Lick Observatory’s summer public programs.
• Coordinate vendors for talent, both musical and scientific.
• Handle logistics including registration, scheduling, materials, and on‑site execution.
• Ensure budget compliance and process financial transactions.
• Serve as onsite leader for most public program nights.
• Deliver presentations and night sky tours during public and fundraising events.
• Support & lead private on‑site events such as film crews, media access, and local partnership events.
• Provide on‑call support of events throughout the year.
• Liaise with stakeholders including UCSC administrative offices, external vendors, and public partners.
• Contribute to communication materials and storytelling that highlight Lick’s scientific and historical…